In the legal sense, a slip-and-fall is an accident where the person trips, falls, or slips due to certain elements in the environment. Such elements and the accidents they cause on another’s property are considered to be hazardous. When it is proven that the owner or occupier of a property was negligent in maintaining a safe property or failed to warn the victim of the danger, the owner or occupier may be liable for any injuries sustained by the victim and can approach a slip and fall attorney Los Angeles.
Why are slips and falls considered a liability in California?
The California legislature considers slips and falls a liability because property owners and occupiers in the state are legally obligated to maintain a safe working environment and to warn others of potential hazards. It is required by California law to fulfill this duty, including premises liability laws and codes, and failure to do so can result in legal liability for injuries caused by slips and falls. Accordingly, if someone slips and falls on someone else’s property in California and the owner or occupier fails to warn of the possible dangers of conditions leading to danger or maintains unsafe premises, they may be held liable for any resulting injuries and damages by a slip and fall attorney Los Angeles.
What kind of recourse or slip and fall attorney do individuals have against slips and fall liabilities?
It depends on the circumstances of the accident caused by the slips and falls, the laws in the individual’s jurisdiction, and what recourse they have. Injury victims should consult with a personal injury lawyer with experience to understand their legal rights and options after an accident that falls into the ‘slip and fall’ category. People who suffer injuries in slip and fall accidents may be able to pursue legal action against the liable parties. There are several types of recourse available for slip and fall accidents, including:
Filing a personal injury claim or lawsuit
If an individual is injured on the property, he or she may seek compensation from the owner or occupier of the property responsible for perilous conditions. A person who has been injured may be able to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Insurance claims
As a last resort, the injured person can also file a claim with their own insurance company or the property owner’s insurance company, depending on the circumstances.
Workers’ compensation
Workers’ compensation might cover medical expenses and lost wages if the slip and fall accident occurred at work.
Settlement negotiations
In some cases, a settlement may be negotiated between the injured party and the liable party to avoid a lawsuit.
Some common types of slip and fall accidents include:
In addition to homes, businesses, public areas, and outdoor spaces, slip and fall accidents can also occur in other locations. Depending on the accident’s severity, injuries may range from bruises and cuts to broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
Slippery or wet surfaces
Surfaces such as wet floors, slippery stairs, oily surfaces, and slippery surfaces can cause a person to lose their footing.
Uneven or damaged flooring
It can fall because of unlevel or damaged flooring, including loose floorboards, torn carpets, and uneven sidewalks.
Poor lighting
It is difficult to see potential hazards, such as uneven surfaces or objects on the ground, in poorly lit areas, which increases the risk of slipping and falling.
Obstructed walkways
A person can trip and fall when obstructions or debris obstruct walkways or aisles.
Weather conditions
Weather conditions such as snow, ice, rain, and other factors can make outdoor surfaces slippery, increasing the risk of slip-and-fall accidents.
Elevated areas
There is a risk of serious injuries and even death from falls from elevated areas, including ladders, scaffolding, and rooftops.
Slippery footwear
Shoe soles or heels that have slippery soles can also contribute to slip and fall accidents. Even though the surface itself is safe, a person may lose their footing due to this.
Improper footwear
Additionally, wearing shoes that don’t provide adequate support or are too large or small may lead to slips and falls.
Cluttered areas
It is more likely for a slip-and-fall accident to occur in areas that are cluttered with objects, such as a hoarder’s home or an industrial work area filled with many tools.
Electrical cords
Unsecured or uncovered electrical cords can lead to slip and fall accidents by becoming a tripping hazard.
Poorly maintained elevators or escalators
It is possible to trip or fall when entering or exiting a building due to a malfunctioning elevator or escalator.
Swimming pools
It is also possible to slip and fall around swimming pools because of wet surfaces, making it difficult to maintain footing. In case of severe damages or injuries, you can consult a slip and fall attorney Los Angeles.
